At Driftwood Animal Hospital in Daytona Beach, Florida, we know your pet is more than just an animal—they’re part of the family. You want them to be happy, healthy, and pain-free for as long as possible. One often-overlooked area that plays a major role in your pet’s overall health is dental care.
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in pets—and yet, it often goes unnoticed. Many owners assume bad breath is harmless, but it can actually be a warning sign of gum disease, oral infections, or even more serious systemic problems. Left untreated, dental disease can lead to chronic pain, tooth loss, and damage to the heart, liver, or kidneys.
Contact Driftwood Animal Hospital to schedule your pet’s dental exam.
Why Dental Health Matters
Oral Health Affects the Whole Body
Your pet uses their mouth for eating, playing, and grooming—making oral health essential for everyday comfort. But the risks go far beyond bad breath or toothaches. When plaque and tartar aren’t addressed, they lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. From there, harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Learn more from AVMA: Pet Dental Care.
The Hidden Dangers of Skipping Dental Care
What Happens Without Routine Cleanings
Without proper dental care, your pet may develop:
- Gingivitis: Inflamed, red gums caused by plaque buildup
- Periodontal Disease: Deep gum infections that lead to tooth loss and jawbone damage
- Oral Bacteria Infections: These can travel through the bloodstream, causing damage to internal organs
Neglecting dental care can shorten your pet’s life—and reduce their quality of life along the way.
For a deeper dive, check out AAHA: Healthy Mouth, Healthy Pet.
Common Dental Problems in Pets
Tartar and Plaque Buildup
Plaque begins forming within 24–48 hours after a meal. Without brushing, it hardens into tartar, which leads to gum inflammation and potential infection. These issues are often preventable with regular cleanings and at-home care.
Periodontal Disease
By age three, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of periodontal disease. This painful, progressive condition can cause:
- Gum recession
- Tooth loss
- Bone loss
- Infections that spread to the heart, liver, or kidneys
Fractured Teeth and Root Abscesses
Dogs that chew hard toys or bones risk cracking their teeth. Fractures can expose the sensitive inner pulp, leading to infection and pain. Pets may also develop root abscesses, especially if gum disease is already present.
More on this at Today’s Veterinary Practice.
How Dental Disease Impacts Overall Health
Systemic Infections from Oral Bacteria
Dental infections don’t stay in the mouth. Bacteria can spread through the bloodstream, potentially leading to:
- Heart disease (endocarditis)
- Kidney disease
- Liver inflammation
Routine cleanings can prevent these serious health complications before they start.
Tooth Resorption and Bone Loss
Advanced periodontal disease can erode the jawbone, sometimes leading to spontaneous fractures. Cats are especially prone to tooth resorption, a painful condition requiring tooth extraction.
Preventing Dental Disease
Professional Cleanings
Veterinary dental cleanings are the only way to fully remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. These cleanings allow:
- Early detection of hidden issues
- Full oral exams with dental X-rays
- Polishing to prevent future buildup
They are typically recommended once per year but may be needed more often for high-risk pets, like small dogs.
Read more about small dog dental issues:
AKC: The Trouble with Toy Teeth
Royal Canin: A Short Guide to Dental Disease in Small Breed Dogs.
At-Home Oral Hygiene
Daily brushing with pet-safe toothpaste is the best way to prevent dental disease. If brushing isn’t possible every day, aim for 3–4 times per week and supplement with:
- VOHC-approved dental chews
- Water additives
- Specialized dental diets
Choose the Right Toys
Avoid bones, antlers, or nylon chews that can crack your pet’s teeth. Stick with softer rubber toys or VOHC-approved dental chews.
When to See a Vet Immediately
Contact us if your pet has:
- Persistent bad breath
- Bleeding or inflamed gums
- Broken, loose, or missing teeth
- Pawing at the mouth or difficulty eating
- Facial swelling or signs of oral pain
These may be signs of advanced dental disease that require immediate treatment.
Protect Their Smile—And Their Health
Dental disease is more than a cosmetic issue—it’s painful, progressive, and linked to serious health conditions. The good news? It’s preventable.
At Driftwood Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you keep your pet’s teeth clean, their breath fresh, and their body healthy with routine dental care and guidance for at-home maintenance.
Schedule your pet’s dental checkup today and take the first step toward lifelong oral health.
Leave A Comment